Man thanks Yorkshire Air Ambulance with series of fundraising events

A man who was airlifted to hospital after breaking his leg has launched a week of events in Skipton to raise money for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Brian Preston, district chairman of the Oddfellows Society, was airlifted to Airedale Hospital after breaking his leg several years ago at Skipton Golf Club.

And to thank the charity, he has arranged a series of Easter events at the society’s Three Links Club in Rectory Lane.

The fundraising drive was the idea of Oddfellows member, Maureen Dawson, who has asked for donations to the charity instead of presents, for her 60th birthday during Easter week.

“My first hand experience underlined to me the vital importance of the work done by the air ambulance crews,” said Brian.

“In my case, the injury was not life-threatening, but for many people these helicopters make all the difference in getting them to a major trauma centre within the critical golden hour.”

All the events are open to all and will kick off on Saturday with an Easter music quiz and bingo night, starting at 8pm.

On Easter Sunday, there will be a treasure hunt from 2pm, and on Wednesday, there will be a coffee morning between 10am and 1pm, including homemade food.

Thursday will see a grand quiz night, from 8pm, and is open to teams of four for an admission charge of £5.

And to round the week off, on Saturday, April 26, there will be live music with Sarah Kidman and a raffle.

Jean Phillip, one of the organisers, said: “We hope as many people as possible will join us to enjoy themselves and raise money for a vital service for the community. We would also like to thank businesses for their overwhelming support.”

For more details, to buy £2 tickets for the treasure hunt or enter a quiz team, telephone (01756) 798022.